Australia is a top destination for international students, known for its high-quality education, diverse culture, and vibrant lifestyle. If you’re planning to study Down Under, the Student Visa for Australia is your key to entry. This visa allows you to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily while enrolled in an eligible course. Here’s a complete guide to help you understand the Subclass 500 visa process, eligibility, and benefits.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Subclass 500 visa – from eligibility and application steps to key requirements and conditions.
What Is the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)?
The subclass 500 student visa allows international students to live and study full-time at a registered educational institution in Australia. It also allows part-time work rights during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks.
The Subclass 500 is a student visa that permits international students to stay in Australia for the duration of their study program, which can be up to five years, depending on the course. It covers a wide range of education levels, including:
- Primary and secondary school
- Vocational education and training (VET)
- Higher education (bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees)
- English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)
Standard Processing Times in 2025
As of mid-2025, the Department of Home Affairs publishes estimated processing times, which are subject to change based on various factors.
Current Estimates (2025)*:
- 75% of applications are processed within 22–29 days
90% of applications are processed within 40–50 days
Factors That Affect Visa Processing Time
Processing times can vary significantly based on:
1. Completeness of the Application
Ensure that all required documents are submitted with your application. Missing medicals, English test scores, or GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) statements can delay the process.
2. Type of Course & Education Provider
Some courses or providers may be classified as “low risk,” which may result in faster processing.
3. Nationality
Applicants from countries considered “low immigration risk” often experience faster processing.
4. Health & Character Checks
If additional medical examinations or background checks are required, processing could take longer.
5. Volume of Applications
Peak periods (e.g., before the February and July intakes) tend to see longer processing times due to high demand.
Tips to Speed Up Your Application
- Submit a complete application with all supporting documents
- Upload a strong Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
- Complete medicals early if prompted
- Pay visa fees promptly
When Should You Apply?
It is strongly recommended to apply for your student visa at least 8–12 weeks before your course start date. This buffer allows for any unexpected delays and gives you time to prepare for your move.
Key Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Subclass 500 visa, you must:
Have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): You must be enrolled in a full-time course registered under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
Meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirements: You must prove that your intention is to stay in Australia temporarily for study purposes.
Show English Language Proficiency: Depending on your course and country of origin, you may need to provide results from tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
Have Sufficient Funds: You must demonstrate that you can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): This health insurance is mandatory for the duration of your stay.
Meet Character and Health Requirements: A health examination and police certificate may be required.
How to Apply
Gather Documents: This includes your CoE, passport, English proficiency scores, financial statements, and OSHC proof.
Create an ImmiAccount: Register on the official Australian immigration portal.
Complete the Online Application: Fill out the Subclass 500 form and upload the necessary documents.
Pay the Visa Fee: As of 2025, the base application fee is around AUD 710 (check for updates).
Attend a Biometrics Appointment (if required): You may be asked to provide fingerprints and a photo.
Wait for a Decision: Processing times vary but typically range from 1 to 3 months.
Visa Benefits
Work Rights: You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during holidays.
Family Inclusion: You can include your spouse and children in your application.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Some students may later qualify for graduate or skilled visas.
Tips for a Successful Application
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Start early – at least 3–4 months before your course begins.
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Write a clear, honest GTE statement.
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Keep digital and physical copies of all documents.
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Double-check visa conditions on your visa grant letter.
Final Thoughts
The Subclass 500 visa is your gateway to studying and living in Australia. By understanding the requirements and preparing your application carefully, you can enhance your chances of a smooth visa approval. For the best information and expert guidance, trust ThinkEduBox—your partner in international education.
While the processing time for an Australian student visa is generally efficient, being proactive and well-prepared makes a significant difference. With a complete and well-documented application, most students receive their visa within 1 to 1.5 months.
Planning early means less stress and more time to focus on what really matters — preparing for your Australian education journey.